It's bad enough having to take baths, make his bed, and set the table; now Alfie is supposed to give up his favorite red shoes. "They are too small for you," says his mother, but Alfie has had enough, and he is running away from home. His gentle mother helps him pack the things he would need and miss, including Buddy Bear, and she puts a "hug" into the bag as well. Striking out on his own (in the backyard), Alfie eventually realizes his shoes are too small, and wishes there really were a hug in his bag. Lauren Castillo pictures this realistic mother-son episode for youngsters up to 7 in softly outlined crayon and watercolor drawings.